Lamar Alexander lays down case for abolishing minimum wages

U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander says that he’d like to get rid of the minimum wage and replace it with higher tax credits for the poor — though it does not appear the idea is anywhere close to becoming legislation.

Alexander’s argument boils down to a economic and philosophical point: if the federal government wants people to have a basic standard of living, it ought to pay for it outright, rather than requiring employers to do so.

U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, a supporter of the minimum wage bill, chuckled in appreciation of the intellectual exercise, but noted it’s just that.

“That’s a very interesting discussion — for another time,” he replied.